AWA and other things sweet

Hey guys! Work has been crazy, but I finally have some time time to post some of my stuff from AWA. Later in the week, I should have a reviews up for Fourze, Gokaiger, comments of Bleach, a review of the new Gundam series Gundam AGE, and some video from AWA!

For now, tour these photos!

http://photobucket.com/TKG_at_AWA11

The Bittersweet End (DWG3 DLC Teirea Erde/GN-008 SERAVEE Gundam)

All good things must come to an end, but this one refuses to go silently into the night. Teirea Erde, the final member of Celestial Being and the last announced DLC character for Dynasty Warriors Gundam 3, comes with his second season mech Seravee (yes, you can access Seraphim as well though combo attacks and the combination Mushu Attack).

Being a heavy armament type, this mech can take some punishment while countering with high-power attacks with a long, wide range. The unit is equipped with all six beam sabers for highly effective melee attacks, and the dual bazookas plus the shoulder-mounted beam cannons provide for excellent dash and ranged damage. it is very similar to the GP-02 in that respect, but with more offensive power and options.



This is the last DLC character pack that we know of, and I highly doubt that more will be announced. This one is definitely worth the money though, and it will round out the 00 trope, giving you even more a reason to pick it up.

WE'RE IN SPACE (KR Fourze 1)

Another fall, another Rider, but this one has an ace up his sleeve. The power of SPACE!!!

Just watch out for space cops.

Yes, and now I'm going to hear that voice every time I start an episode. Anyway back the really topic: Fourze. Ok, as some of you might know, I love 555. He is definitely one of my top five Riders (V3, W, Decade and Den-O would round out the rest, in no order) with one of the best belts systems ever. Watching Takumi fumble around on the battlefield while trying to equip his Faiz Pointer, getting the Rider Kick in at the very last second, was always a pleasure, so when I heard about Fourze, I peed a little.

Sure, I'm not in love with the whole composite hero thing, since it seems like we have had three similar systems almost back-to-back. Yes, he seems kinda similar to OOO (both are kinda oblivious but incredibly loyal) but whatever (and are they in the same universe?). I like the suit design, albeit had to grow on me at first, as it works well with the abilities Fourze is capable of, and Gentaro Kisaragi is hard not to love, between the hair and the attitude.

If you haven't seen episode one, you can find it here at TV Nihon.

Combo breaker?

Gentaro seems to be a good fit for the theme too. He is very likable and his' will to put everything on the line for friendship. A perfect fit to a series with the tag-line "Youth switches on into outer space!"

While the episode is kinda disjointed, we do find out some major plot implications for the future. For one, Kengo's dad is the man who is killed at the beginning of the show . . . in space. We also know that Gentaro and our Rider Girl Yuuki are childhood friends inching ever closer to their lifelong dreams, and that one of the school officials (I presume headmaster) is in control of the Zodiarts, creatures bearing the powers of constellations. Kengo, while willing, is unable to effectively become Fouze and barely has the strength to man the Powerdizer.

Because every hero needs a pose . . . and a Rider girl.

The characters have a huge potential for growth, and I' interested to see which direction they take with the foil Rider. If anyone has info please link, but I imagine it's going to either be a new character or Shun (because he is an ass).

Episode two in just one week away, and I already can't wait!

Kamen Rider and Sentai progress

So, you probably noticed the lack of Bleach/Sentai/KR in while. I'm working on that. As far at 000 is concerned, I'll do a comprehensive wrap once I finish the series(XD), and I'll be back to current on Gokaiger soon as well. Bleach is totally bananas right now So I'm just going to assume you've ready though all that shit, and are current as well. Next week should mark the return of all of these and the debut of Fourze.

BTW, if you know where I can torrent Ep. 1, lemme know. TVNihon is letting me down a bit . . .

The Power Lies in the Name (El Shaddai: Ascent of the Metatron - PS3 and Xbox 360)

If you had told me a year ago that there was going to be a cool game based on the book of Enoch, I would have given you a tin foil hat to help keep the voices out of your head. El Shaddai, however, is incredible. One of the best action games I've played in years, El Shaddai has you playing as Enoch, charged with hunting down and capturing seven fallen angels in order to prevent a cataclysmic flood. Enoch is aided on his quest by the angel Lucifel (he's good in this one, hence the "l" see) and four archangels: Raphael, Uriel, Gabriel, Michael.

AAAAAWWWWW!!!!!

Directed by Takeyasu Sawaki (Devil May Cry, Okami) and produced by Ignition Studios, this game is a seven-hour paper-rock-scissors action adventure game that got a hold of some really good acid. Enoch can wield 1 of 3 weapons over the course of the game: sword-like the Arch, the deadly-accurate ranged Gale and the Veil gauntlets which can form into a shield. Essentially, these weapons work on a paper-rock-scissors scheme with Veil deflecting Gale, Gale sniping Arc, and Arc besting Veil. This weapons degrade overtime, but Enoch can purify any weapon (even those held by enemies) to increase it's effectiveness and damage. Purification is also great for disarming opponents to change the tide of battle quickly.

Yes, yes a basic formula that is easy to understand but very hard to master at high difficulty levels. Even on normal difficulty, the player must understand the relationship between these weapons or face never-ending peril once they hit "the tower" (trust me, you'll know it when you see it) and start the actual game. Enoch's battle animations are exciting and dramatic as well. You'll find yourself leaping over targets, sliding under golems or manhandling multiple enemies using the Gale's fangs like Byakuya's petals.

Yeah, he's a good guy in this one right?

The combat, however, is not what keeps you in this game. The psychedelic art and creative game design draw you further into the story better than any other mechanic in this game. Taking place on glowing mountains made of light, the training stages offer incredible visuals while constantly shifting between dramatic 3D action/adventure gameplay to 2D platforming. This type of innovative approach to a basic game format is exactly what I look forward to in new IPs, and El Shaddai goes full tilt in the innovation department. There is even a Tron-esque motorcycle stage!

This game looks so awesome I want to vomit.

I absolutely loved this game, but it has some drawbacks. While the game doesn't really punish you for dying (You have to mash buttons in order to revive your character if you die in combat. Otherwise, God literally snaps his fingers and you go back to the last solid platform unless you have lost all possible revives and armor.), I found myself incorporating death into some of my endgame battle plans. While you revive with only half armor, sometimes this I just enough to get your though a battle. I'm not quite sure if this is really a complaint, but it was definitely something that stuck with me for better or worse. The backgrounds and environments, like I mentioned before, are amazing but sometimes they are a bit too distracting. Tack on cumbersome camera controls and you get a recipe for disaster during some of the 3D platforming segments. I'm sure my downstairs neighbors would agree on how frustrating this can become.

The game is wroth the money though, if you are into this type of stuff. This is the best action/adventure game I have played since Bayonetta, and the most innovative platformer I've picked up in years. El Shaddai is infectious, inspiring and insanely fun. The gameplay (save the camera) is spot on and dynamic, the story is truly inspired and the artwork is incredible to say the least.

(Programming note: Traded in Bleach for D4, because yes. Review in the next few days. Also Starfox 64 3DS and new Rider talk)

Lightning Can Strike Twice (DWG3 DLC Allelujah Haptism/GN-007 ARIOS)

It's Gundam time again, and this week marks the release of the third OO DLC character, Celesital Beings resident schizophrenic Allehujah Haptism. Of course he comes with his season 2 mech, GN-007 Arios. Too bad Soma isn't tagging along in the GNR-101, but Arios is still a power addition to the Gundam force.

Just like in the series, Arios is very quick. It is as quick as Cherudim, but a bit more beam saber heavy in his attacks. Its build is actually very similar to Reborns but with more powerful special equipment (Original Solar Furnace = Raiser System), better combo attacks and a cooler paint job.

Arios can also transform into in Archer Form, or aerial form, which greatly increases the efficency of booster output. Certain combos also utilize this form to deal extra hits and charging attacks using its GN Shield pincers.

Just on note on the pilot Allehujah: is anyone else weirded out by his name? When I was originally watching he series I thought it was a translation error, with the subbers mistaking the "B" for a soft "H." Now, I'm remembered how much that name bothers me nearly every day. Really Sunrise? Y u do dis?

Anyway, the DLC follows the same mech/meister/mission formula that the other DLC packs established and is worth the purchase in my mind, especially if you are a OO fan.

Step Aside Susanowo, The Champs are Coming! (DW:G3 DLC Pilot Pack 3: Lockon Stratos/GN-009 CHERUDIM)

As you could probably guess, I love Susanowo and Graham Aker. He is my favorite DLC character so far, and the second character that I maxed out. Everything about his design impressed me, and it felt like KOEI really plucked the suit straight from the series and dropped him into the fray.

Hey you! Yeah you by the wall! Catch!!!

That is, until Lockon and the 009-CHERUDIM waltzed into town. Available on PSN and Xbox 360 right now, this DLC package contains (yet again) another suit/pilot combo and a character specific mission which upgrades Lockon to Newtype status.

Pretty much all of his attacks are ranged/shot attacks, so this mech greatly benefits from the Sniper equipment and the Piercing Shot Skill. Cherudim is also very agile and has a wide range; taking on groups is no sweat in this baby! Its special ability is the same as the OO's, and Cherudim is also granted multiple attacks upon activation of its Trans Am Drive.

This thing is a beauty, and it has me even more pumped to see the rest of the OO cast, especially Arios.

The Sunrises on the Next Great Dynamic Duo (Tiger & Bunny 1-10)

So I'm hanging out with some friends the other day, and we get to talking about the anime that we are currently watching when one of them says, "So did you see the new Tiger & Bunny?"

My quizzical expression must have given me away because he immediately started singing the praises of Sunrise's new buddy cop action anime, Tiger & Bunny. The show centers around Sternbild City during the year NC 1978. In years past, special individuals called NEXT became heroes and protected the city. But like with all things, corporations eventually sticks their dicks into the situation take over the system, mutating this harmony into the Hero TV system. Each hero is sponsored and works to collect points; The hero with the most points at the end of the season wins the title "King of Heroes."

Kotetsu "Wild Tiger" Kaburagi is a washed up old superhero of yesteryear who is forced to either team up with the young hotshot hero Barnaby Brooks Jr. The reluctant duo are equipped with power suits that augment their NEXT abilities of super strength, speed and agility called Hundred Power, and compete against other super heroes to save the most civilians and nab the most criminals.

While each hero has his or her own flaws, Barnaby's and Kotetsu's dilemma are the core of the plot. Barnaby's parents were murdered when he was four, and he has spent the rest of his life searching for the group Ouroboros, the syndicate responsible for their assassinations. Kotetsu struggles to find a balance between work and his family. Both problems provide for great storytelling, but the real power comes from the push and pull of two lonely souls, unwillingly but slowly learning to trust and depend on one another.

Teamwork in action.

And then episode 10 happens, and things start getting serious. I'm taking "we're-going-to-war-against-Shocker" real.

Yeah, and it only gets better and better. If you are not already watching this, check it out. Luckily, Viz is simulcasting new episodes on the Anime News Network and Hulu.com, so it's easy to catch up and stay on track with this one.

Racjin/NIS's Resurreccion lacks a soul (Bleach: Soul Resurreccion - PS3 exclusive)

When this game was originally announced, I flipped my lid. Shattered Blade was ok, and I loved the DS and PSP fighters, but I always expected Bleach to get a huge console banazsplosion a la Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 or Raging Blast 2. After playing the demo, I was still in (and even more excited by the graphics! Oh, so pretty!!!) and eagerly anticipated the games release.

Then August 2 came, and everything changed. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME!!! REPEAT! DO NOT BUY THIS GAME!!!

Well at least don't buy this game at full price. Split the cost somehow, or wait for it to hit the bargain bin because the game has almost no substance. Yes, YES I know it is pretty. The animations are smooth as silk, the voice acting (both tracks are included for all you purist assholes out there) is excellent and the soundtrack is perfect for the high-speed combat. Speaking of the combat, the controls are nearly perfect, but a tad bit loose a times. My biggest complaint really is that special moves lock all characters in place once they are activated. While this means you can crush an opponent in one blow once you get them to about a third health left, it does mean you will probably die to Aizen and/or Barragan and/or Ulquiorra because

they are all cheap bastards that can rot in hell.

What was I talking about again? . . . Oh, Bleach is beautiful. Look at this!

I know, but other than that the game has nothing. There are 14 episodes to dash through (which covers Hueco Mundo to the fall of Aizen), and about 30 missions along side that, so there is not a ton of content. Judging by the trophy list, the developers expected you to max out every character, which is kinda a pain. That is for later though.

One problem with that plan: there is absolutely no multiplayer. There is a score comparison mode (OH WOW SO COOL!) but that is it. What the fun in that? I would totally be down for leveling everyone to the max if I could play it with by buddies and fellow Bleach fans. This was by far the biggest let down, but lets not that take away from my other big problem with the game.

Yeah, prepare to be doing this ALOT if you want a platinum in this one.

Leveling takes forever. If you have played/heard of Final Fantasy 10, you are probably familiar with the Sphere Grid. That is basically how you have to level each character in this game. Each character in the game adds a new branch to the grid once they become playable, and the branches range in size from 4-23 ability/support/power-up skills a piece. There are 21 characters in all, so this come out to be a taxing task to say the least.

This isn't made any better by the lack of environments. This can be said about any hack-and-slash game, but Bleach seemed particularly hollow (hoo HOO!) and bland. The story in crammed into short loading sections before each stage, but most non-Bleach fans won't be able to keep up with it to save their lives.

Really that just seems to be the problem with the entire game: it's just ok. Aside from the graphics, nothing really makes this title shine, nor does it do the Bleach series justice as far as scale and content goes. Avoid buying this one guys, and go get El Shaddai or Deus Ex. I know I wish I had. XC

The coming of Puru, um . . . 12? (review of DWG3 DLC Marida Cruz/Kshatriya)

So many irons in so many fires, but let's forget about our problems and obligations for a minute and talk about something fun: Trashing thousands of suits for scrap, then selling the salvage! Judau, you taught us so much.

The second character to be releases by KOEI, Marida Cruz comes with Kshatriya (4-wings) when purchased for $6 (480 MSP). Like with Susanowo, Kshatriya can be used by all pilots immediately, and its special ability, which raises the unit's defense after 250 kills.

Kshatriya's big advantage is it's HUGE range. Because of the quad-wing design, her beam sword attacks and beam attacks are omni-directional, much like a Qubeley. At first I though it was kinda lame, requiring me to fight in a group to be effective. However, once you start to work with her combos, especially with the charge 4 and charge combo alternations, she can really do some damage. Kshatriya's air combos are pretty sick as well, so chain those in whenever possible.

Overall, the DLC is work picking up. Marida's mission is incredible (you end up getting 400+ kills in starting sequence), and the suit is pretty sick too.

It's been a while yeah, but I have something random here. Kinda XD: Dynasty Warriors Gundam 3 DLC content

Hey everyone. Been gone for a bit but I'm back! Finally have a computer that, well, works so back to blogging! I have alot of stuff in store, but first up is something a bit random. DYNASTY WARRIORS GUNDAM 3 DLC!

If you have had the pleasure of playing this title, I'm sure you know what I mean when I say that this game is a pleasure. Much like it's parent series Dynasty Warriors, DWG3 is a hack-and-slash title for the PS3 and Xbox 360 featuring characters from nearly every Gundam series from 0083 to 00.

Susanowo going to work in a Palace Athene. What a wonderful world! (Image from KOEI)

The game is really good (more on that to come), and I recommend it to anyone looking for a good action game with tons of content. This review however is about the postponed, but finally available first wave of DLC on the PS3. Most of this content has been available on the Xbox 360 but because of a goof either on Sony's part of KOEI/Bandai/Whatever-they-are-calling-themselves-now, is just now coming to the PS3. Today also marks the release of the first of many DLC pilots, Graham Aker/Mister Bushido with his custom suit Susanowo in tow.

If you have seen 00, then you know that Susanowo is on par with Gundam 00 (it's still and handful for Setsuna even after he obtains the Riser System) and is capable of goign into TransAm Mode, and KOEI accurately captured his might in the game. Making full use of all of his weapons and suit's abilities, Susanowo is a powerhouse up close. Like Epyon, Susanowo has no true ranges charge one attack. It does a quick slash which can be used to interrupt attacks, but it has a a very short range. It's strength lies in his charge 2, 4 and 5 which are quick, multi-hit attacks that are easy to chain into long aerial combos.

Susanowo's normal and combo mushu attacks are also devastatingly powerful. It's normal is akin to Deathscythe H's mushu, a dynamic charge with both swords at the enemy while activating TransAm Mode. This attack becomes even more deadly when suit's special equipment Entrusted Secrets is active, which raise the amount of SP earned from attacks after 250 units are downed.

It's not completely helpless at long range though. Susanowo's charge 6 attack forms a gigantic energy burst from the suit's Tri-Punisher unit which deals several hits to the target(s) and is a great move for clearing the field in a hurry. The Tri-Punisher can also be activated in midair using as aerial mushu attack. These moves seemed a bit OP, but Aker never really known for capping his furious power in the heat of battle. Why shouldn't his custom mech held the same standards?

The rest of the content is pretty meh. I did enjoy the Acguy fight, and I now know why the Gedlav is the most wonder mech in the universe, but I'd pass of the $.99 for now if you are on a budget. Graham Aker, however is great, but he runs $6 on PSN. They mission he comes with turns him into a newtype, so you don't have to worry about having to raise his friendship gauge(as far as I can tell he doesn't have one anyway, which makes sense in a way). The content pack also makes Susanowo available to all pilots immediately, which is also helpful.

Keep in mind we still have a confirmed date for at least one more DLC character and suit this month. Mardia Cruz from Unicorn is coming on the 10th with Kshatriya at her side. They will most likely be $6 as well, and I'm sure she will be as powerful as her other Unicorn counterparts.

That's all for now! I'll check back in soon with some fresh reviews soon so stay tuned!

Thanks to BassGSnewtype for the recordings!

Gokaiger is a-go!: The Gokaiger Megareview (Gokaiger 3-10)

On to Gokaiger then! Just like in my last review for Bleach, this is a mega-review covering Gokaiger 3-10. I'm quite smitten with this series so far; the dialogue is witty and the characters are lively, Capt. Marvelous and Luka in particular.


The action is top notch as well; the rangers are constantly swapping weapons and tricking opponents to gain a strategic advantage. Luka has a fantastic flying sword style; Joe is a master dual swordsman. Ahim is a natural with dual pistols, which Doc seems to have seer luck and slight marksmanship skills on his side. Capt. Marvelous, of course, is a bad-ass. I would love to see him fight with either/both Takeru or Sosuke. That would be quite a sight to behold.

Most of the episodes up to this point have centered around Navi's predictions, and the rangers unusually end up unlocking a treasure from a past series. By Doc's count there are 34 legendary powers to retrieve, so the next several episode will most like be dedicated to that with Damaras's usurpation plan as the first half's climax; to date the team has collected four such powers.

Black Out! Gokai Pink, Yellow and Blue fighting as Go-on Black, Ninja Black and Abare Black.

[3]Doc Dogoier is pretty helpless; he's skittish, shy, too reliant on sure calculation and the easy path. If you have seen Gokaiger 2, then you are familiar with Navi's prediction about the man in black clothing. Well he's here in this episode, and his name is Kai Ozu, leader of the Magirangers.

While searching for treasure, the Gokai Galleon crash lands after colliding with a Zangyack battle cruiser commanded by Action Commander Salamandam. When Doc comes about, he and Capt. Marvelous wind up face-to-face with Kai, who goads them into chasing him in order to obtain the Magiranger Legendary Power.


Ahim, Luka and Joe get detracted by Salamandam and several Gormin but are able to easily repel them using Abare Black, Go-on Black and Ninja Black, then switching the the "all-white" combo of Big One, Gao White and White Swan. Meanwhile, Capt. Marvelous plows through Kai's challenges dragging an apprehensive Doc with him.

Eventually they make their way to a cliff, Kai waiting patiently on the other side. Marvelous takes the jump, but falls short. Faced with danger of losing one of his friends, Doc springs into action right before he (kinda) catches Kai. Impressed by his courage, Kai grants the Gokaiger's the power of the Magirangers, bestowing upon them the power of Magi Dragon, powering up Gokaioh.

[4] Action Commander Zodomas interrupts Joe and Ahim's grocery shopping excursion, and Joe instantly becomes intrigued by his unique sword technique. Joe tries his best take him on, but fails; Zodomus escapes shortly afterward as the other rangers arrive. Back on the Galleon, Joe decides to enter dedicated training to dissect and defeat Zodomus's technique. Ahim, impressed by this effort, gains courage and gives Joe her Gokai Saber for his upcoming duel with Zodamus.

Zodomus, however, refuses to fight fairly, unleashing several Sugormin on Joe right as the duel starts. While the other Gokaiger take care of the Sugormin using Gekiranger and Dekaranger powers, Joe defeats Zodamus's sword technique and defeats the Action Commander before Insarn intervenes using the Gigant Horse's growth cannons. Gokaioh use Magi Dragon to defeat Zodamus and a few Sugormin before moving on to find their next treasure.

[5] Navi indicated to the team that they will find the next treasure among cops, prompting Marvelous head right into the lion's den to look for it. After a brief scuffle, a handcuffed Marvelous desperately tries to outrun SPD chief Doggie Kruger but fails. Right as Kruger is about to take Marvelous in, they stumble upon a Zangyack plot headed by Action Commander Alienizer Buramudo.

Kruger intervenes but is injured in the process. Escaping with Marvelous, he orders him to stay put while he deals with Alienizer Buramudo; Marvelous, however, disobeys his command and saves Kruger from a near suicidal attempt. Earning Kruger's respect, he gets his Mobirates back then disrupts Alienizer Buramudo with the aid of his fellow rangers using Dekaranger powers.

DO A BARREL ROLL!!!

After Alienizer Buramudo grows, the team calls Gokaioh and unleash their newly found Dekaranger Legendary Power: the Pat Striker. DekaRed shows up to collect an injured Kruger, also shows his approval for the new team and departs as the Gokaigers fly off into the sunset.

[6] Luka, possibly (no, definitely) my favorite Gokaiger of the lot, is your classic young swashbuckler; she's silver-tongued, sly and quick, always in it to win. So when a overnight tycoon offers to hire her to be a bodyguard for his daughter and his precious golden tree.

Luka discovers that the golden tree is the source of Kozo's fortune, which his daughter Komaki Kasugi squanders. When Action Commander Nanonanoda, sent by the Zangyack Empire to steal the tree, she gleefully coerces Kozo into paying a million yen for her protection services. She easily repels Nanonanoda, then later that night we see that she is trying to earn lots of money to help atone for not being able to provide enough for her friends and family back on home planet.

What secrets are you hiding? Luka refuses to tell Joe why she's so preoccupied with money.

The next day the Gokaiger respond to a second attack by Nanonanoda, defeating them using J.A.Q.K. powers. The Kasugi mansion catches fire during the attack, so Gokai Yellow charges in to save the most valuable possession in the house. She returns with a teddy bear, a sentimental item to Komaki and her father, a symbol of days long gone while the tree melts.

Luka returns to the others who are fighting Nanonanodo, and they defeat him using a sabre-based Final Wave Attack. After Nanonanodo grows, they defeat him with a Full Burst Finisher. Kozo notices that Luka has hidden the million yen check inside the doll, but don't think that she works for free; she steals a ring that she fancied from Komaki's collection. Now that's my kinda gal!

This is why I ♥ Luka!

[7] Navi informs the team that they need to find a tiger child, but just as the gang starts their search, they are interrupted by Cosmic Kenpō Master Pachacamac XIII. Pachacamac proves to be more than Doc and Ahim can handle, and they fall off from the group. Frustrated by their inability to fight on the same level at the other Gokai rangers, Ahim and Doc run into Geki Jū Tiger-Ken master Jyan Kandou, who offers to train them.

Ahim gladly takes his offer while Doc scurries away. Back at the Galleon, he complains about his "natural" weakness compared to the "naturally" gifted Joe, Luka and Capt. Marvelous, who appear to never train at all. He quickly learns that they are always training in their own ways, then humbly return to Jyan to seek training. During their training, Pachacamac attacks in another part of town. Gokei Green and Pink arrive just in time and tell everyone to go Gekiranger form, finally dispatching the Zangyack Commander with Gokai Blast Final Wave Finish.

The ki-based Gekiranger attack, Gokai Dai Deki Deki-ken, unleashes on its foe.

After assembling Gokaioh to battle a enormous Pachacamac, Ahim and Doc suggest that they use the Gekiranger Keys for their finisher, which activates a Ki-based attack where phantom images of all the Geki mecha attack the enemy.

[8] Oiles Gils, frustrated by all of his recent defeats at the hands of the insignificant pirates, snaps at his henchmen then storms off. Isarn and Damaras plot to send out the Elder and Younger Sneak Brothers to spy on the Gokai team's motivation fro staying on Earth. The Gokaigers, however, aren't able to find treasures because Navi is missing.

Ummm . . . nevermind.

Elder Sneak Brother gathers intel while the gang search for their missing compatriot, who it turns out was actually just taking a trip to the beach. After trying him for worrying them, Navi is forced to make a forced to forecast more treasure, who reports that they should look for an island in the sky. Elder makes too much noise and is found out, flying out of the Galleon by the force of Joe's bat.

Transforming into Google V, the Gokaigers defeat both Elder and Younger Sneak Brothers before they are enlarged; they then defeat their giant forms using Deka Gokaioh.

[9] Still searching for the island in the sky, finally come across Sky Island Animarium but are immediately attacked by Gormin and Action Commander Bowser. Their battle draws the attention of Gao Lion who knocks everyone off the island. Kakeru Shishi, Gao Red, show up to tell the Gokai team that Gao lion will never accept them, but end up tending to Ahim's wounds from the previous fight.

GAORANGER! The team taps into their inner beast.

Ahim and Doc plead with and eventually win over Kakeru, and Gao Lion becomes impressed with Gokai Red, Blue and Yellow's protection of the innocent. After having her wounds dressed, Ahim brings Doc along with her to join the other Gokaiger; upon their arrival, the team goes Goaranger and defeats Bowser with the Hyakujuuken. Once he is gigantic, the team henshins with Gao Lion, creating Gao Gokaioh.

With a powerful charge, the Gokaigers defeat Bowser, saving the Mushroom Kindom . . . er, i mean the world.

[10] With five Super Sentai Legendary Powers in tow, our heroes decide to relax a bit with a game of poker. Joe gets on a winning streak, because Luka allows it, when Zangyack attack Earth. They easily defeat every unit except the Special Destruction Unit, at the request of Joe, because it would implode and destroy most of the planet. Luka suggest that she and Joe should board the Special Destruction Unit and disable the ship from the inside.

And she's a master costumer!?! What can't you do Luka?

Dragging Joe along, Luka boards the ship then dawns her home-made Gormin outfits, which apparently are good enough to get the two into the heart of the ship. Gathering everyone including Action Commander Yokubareed around a table for a poker game, Luka stacks the deck in Joe's favor, hoping to cause a distraction. Right when the Gormin get suspicious and start blatantly cheating, he draws an open-faced royal flush.

Yokubareed refuses to accept this result and orders his units to attack when Gokai Red, Green and Pink barge in guns blazing. The plan was indeed a feign for the trio to get in and neutralize the massively destructive element from the ship. Gokai Green blasts the ship as everyone leaps away, finally defeating the Gormin and Yokubareed using J.A.Q.K. and a Final Wave attack.

The Gokaigers mount GaoLion, creating the mighty Goa Goakioh. I have no idea why it's spelled here with a "-ou." Whatev.

The Gokaiger break out Gao Gokaioh and quickly dispatch their foe. Back on the Galleon, Luka reveals that she switched the decks so that he would win his last hand hand. Why? Because Luka leaves nothing to chance!

And with that, Gokaiger has been caught up! Stay tuned, as Gokaiger 11 is out now, and I have a review of that soon as well.

Reel it back in, Ichi!: the Bleach Mega Catch-up (Bleach 441-446)

So it's been a while, yea? Well, instead of boring you with a bunch of small reviews, I'm going to consolidate the reviews that I would have done for each series into a mega review for each series. Therefore this is going to be chapters 441-446 of Bleach, but I will indicate a change in chapter with a link to the chapter itself.

So without further adieu, Ikuze!

[441] We open Ichigo paying a visit to Ikami, asking her to let him take off a couple more weeks from work, presumable to train. Ikumi, with Kauru listening in from the back room, begs for Ichigo to trust her with his secret, but instead, he thanks her and bolts.


Heading to Ginjo, he begs for two things: an explanation and training. Ginjo, happy to oblige him with both, starts with the explanation, telling Ichigo that Tsukishima, Xcution's former leader and a powerful Fullbringer, helped them formulate the plan to use a shinigami to cleanse Fullbringers of their powers, but suddenly killed the shinigami and went rogue. As proof of the events, Ginjo holds up a shinigami badge. He also explains that he is behind the attacks on his comrades and reveals that the second stage of his training is nearly prepped.

Wait, what did he do . . . oh, yeah now I remember. Sorry, it been a while. X'D

Leaving, Ichigo spies his father hanging out around a street light outside Xcution's lounge. Hiding behind a wall, Ichigo observes as Isshin meets with Urahara; Isshin suggests that they should move on, just in case, and they do. (speculative comment: Is it possible that Isshin helped Urahara look into the power of Fullbringers with using Ichigo as a subject? Could his special mix of human and shinigami blood triggered his ability to master both? This would also seem to suggest that Urahara purposefully imbued Ichigo with hollow/Visored abilities, wanting to see the limits of his greatest subject to date.)

Urahara, what have you done?

Ichigo is left to ponder this trusted duo's true intentions with Ginjo's words echoing in his head, but soon decides to focus on regaining his powers first. Coming back the next day to the lounge, Ichigo sees Rurika waiting with a fish tank on a table. After allowing him to enter, we see Jackie Tristan waiting in ankle-high water with dirt underneath, and before you know it, the fight is on!

Funny story, he also has boots made for walking.

[442] Jackie activates her Fullbring "Dirty Boots" and seems to disappear right before Ichigo's eyes. Barely managing to dodge her first advance, Ichigo quickly goes on the defensive, carefully dodging and weaving away from Jackie. This fight is absolutely fantastic, and it only gets better in 443, but we will get to that later. Meanwhile, Inoue finally calls Chad to talk about the recent events and her encounter with Tsukishima.

Now you see me, . . .

She reveals that for a moment, she felt as if she knew Tsukishima from some far distant past, even going so far as to call him a friend. Chad fears the worst in Tsukishima's ability, which he believes may allow him to plant memories or project false pasts into a targets mind. Tsukishima, on the other hand, is thinking about heading directly for his target.


[443] Ichigo and Jackie are still going at it. "Dirty Boots," as the name suggests, refers to the power bonus her Fullbring provides as her boots become more and more sullied. The imperfections came come in the form or blood, dirt, mod, crap, whatever. Obvious a fish tank with plenty of available mud does not bode well for Ichigo, as Jackie announces that she plans to get more aggressive in her attacks, in order for Ichigo to evolve his Fullbring attacks. Seeing him attacking blindly, Jackie picks apart Ichigo's technique move by move, avoiding all three of his attacks before launching a counter; the attacks, however, are a feign by Ichigo, who offers up a powerful counter of his own. Jackie, seeming to have some to an understanding about Ichigo's ability, speculates that he took the brunt of all of her hits so that he could counter with even more power.

[444] Meanwhile Chad arrives to talk to Ginjo about Tsukishima's abilities and reveals to him the what Inoue confided in him. Ginjo waves off Chad's concern, saying that he know the extent of Tsukishima's abilities and Fullbring abilities never evolve. An interesting concept, that Fullbrings have a set max, like a tiered tower; however I would be far from surprised if it turned out that Tsukishima had found a way to bend that rule.

Back in the tank, during a momentary lapse in the battle, Ichigo's badge goes haywire, and dozens of black tendrils begin consume the right side of his body. Fearing the worst, Jackie calls off the training but Ichigo begs her to reconsider, saying that he has always had it this hard. They go back at it, and outside the tank, Ginjo tells Chad to see what Ishida remembers about his attack, fearing that the one who attacked them both might not be Tsukishima; all of a sudden the man of the hour cuts through the door of the lounge.

Go Tsukishima!!! Use Cut!

While everyone stands around dumbfounded, Tsukishima Cuts the tank in two, releasing Ichigo and Jackie. When the dust settles, Ichigo stands before Tsukishima half-cloaked in a Shinigami outfit produced by his Fullbring with half a zanpakuto.


[445] Chad describes his Fullbring as a "clad-type," remarking that his bankai had a similar effect, while Jackie lies bleeding on the floor. Impressed by Ichigo's progress, Tsukishima attacks using Book of the End but is blocked easily by Ichigo. Chad, wanting to protect Ichigo, blasts a hole though a wall, ejecting Tsukishima out of the lounge. Ichigo follows Chad outside and overhears him and Ginjo talking about Inoue's attacker, exciting him into a vengeful rage.

A natural Ace at Fullbringing, Ichigo knocks Tsukishima into the air, then chasing after him by Fullbringing the concrete roof and the air. Tsukishima blocks the attack; Ichigo still unstable Fullbring fractures on his left arm, allowing Tsukishima to easily kick Ichigo back to earth. Diving at a defenseless Ichigo, Tsukishima seems to have won this fight, but like lightning, Ginjo intervenes.

[446] He knocks out Ichigo, then turns to Tsukishima. They duel for a bit before Ginjo releases a massive amount of energy around his blade and strikes at Tsukishima, who predicts his attack nicking Ginjo on the forehead with his countering blow. As building crumble about them, Ichigo jumps back into the fray. Tsukishima blocks his attack, but then he notices Ichigo's Fullbring going berserk again, starting to engulf his head in darkness (are we close to seeing a Fullbring version of his sadistic side?). Knocking him back, Tsukishima seems impressed by Ichigo's current power, which apparently has been dubbed "Invaders-Must-Die."

And we can't wait to see it!

Right then, several black panels fly out from behind Ichigo's head, and start connecting together in front of Tsukishima . . .

And now we're back on track, and I have to say I'm excited for upcoming future of Bleach. Most likely in the next 5 chapters, we will see some significant changes in both Ichigo's and (given the preview text seen at the end of 446) Inoue's powers, culminating the the first of many battles with Tsukishima and his disciples. My only question is, when will Soul Society get involved? Do they even know about what is going on, or are they purposefully choosing to ignore these developments? Stay tuned and we'll find out together!

Vacation time is over!!!

Well, I guess it wasn't as much vacation time, as it was more "finish-everything-needed-to-graduate-so-that-I-go-back-to-doing-fun-stuff" . . . time. Anywho, I'm back and I have several things that I've been meaning to post, from catching up on Bleach, KR OOO & Gokaiger to coverage of the new Dr. Who season and several games that have releases recently. I have a review of the new 3DS (which is awesome btw), Hyperdimenson Neptunia, Arc Rise Fantasia, Portal 2, Dynasty Warriors 7, and Donkey Kong Country Returns [finally!].

So stay tuned over the next couple of days for these!

Yesh, even Pokemon, too!!!

So until then, enjoy this, too!

A Truely Marvelous Game!!! (Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds [PS3, also Xbox 360 & PC])

Let me start out by saying this: I am not a fighting god, I just really like to play fighters. I use to be really good, but then years of RPGs and strategy games softened my skills. I can't even play Street Fighter IV, and I use to be the sh!zzn!ts at SF2 (which is sad because I think I'm going to buy SSFVI for the 3DS . . . because I like to torture myself. And it looks amazing. More on that to come.)

Anyway, back to MvC3:FTW. That's right, if you haven't noticed the initials of the subtitle come out to spell "FTW" (or "for the win" for anyone over 35), and that exactly what this game aimed to do. While it puts up a valiant fight, MvC3 falls just short of obtaining a perfect, hyper combo finish victory.

The graphics are stellar, and all of the character animation are lively, smooth, and entertaining to say the least. My favorites thus far have been Zero from Megaman X fame, Trish and Dante from the Devil May Cry series (seeing as I can never abbreviate that again, lest it get mixed up in this garbage.), and Deadpool from the Marvel stable. Hyper are crisp and clean, lighting up the entire screen before proceeding to their individual animations. I was immediately brought back to the days spent at in middle school buddy's garage, blistering our fingers over MvC2 and Tekken Tag Tournament and chugging Surge. Those were good times. . .

Dante is about to learn the hard way why you don't take a shot at Spiddy. Image from 3anime.com.

Anyway, MvC3 comes from Tatsunoko vs Capcom director/producer Ryota Niitsuma, and the influence of that game's system can clearly be seen in the new control scheme. There are two control options (like in TvC): simple and normal. Simple limits your abilities in battle, but allows for easy combo chains and hyper combos for beginners. Normal mode has changed to a three button scheme with no distinction between high and low its; a character's combos and move set determine high, medium and low hits. There is also an "exchange" button used for starting aerial combos, slamming opponents to the ground, or switching allies mid-combo (depending on your character). Ths new layout is very fluid and easy to learn, but it does require you to pay more attention to character animations to see how each button in a combo effects the area hit.

The character list is pretty robust, featuring returning favorites like Spider-Man, Wolverine, Doctor Doom, Morrigan, Felicia, Akuma and more. A good amount didn't make the cut (the most notable IMO would be Venom, Strider, a good amount of the SF crowd and Cable), but the fresh blood, like Amaterasu, Taskmaster, Dante, Viewtiful Joe, Phoenix and X-23. And the list is still not complete: two characters have already be announced as DLC, with more presumably on the way. Which leads us into the next topic . . .

X-23 goes to town on Chung-Li. Bitches be crazy . . . [Image from G4.com]

Online and multiplayer features! Of course since the game is on the PS3 and Xbox 360, online multiplayer was included and expanded from the version seen on the digital re-release or MvC2. Now, each players online and offline stats are tracked via a player card which can be view by other players before and after matches. The card highlights your strengths and weaknesses, as well an your favorite characters and tendencies. As you play, you can unlock titles and images to customize the card to your liking, and all in all it is a great addition to the game given its focus on online play.

Speaking of, the single player mode is . . . OK. Each character has an individual ending, unlike in MvC2, which is sweet, and gives you something to do offline; offline functions pretty much end here however. Yes, there is a mission mode which trains you on how to use different characters and a practice mode where you can perfect your craft, but there is no time trial mode, there are no alternate game modes or mini-games to unlock. While this is a minor issue for me, since I can play online whenever I want (even if I lose a good amount), I can see how this can be an annoyance to someone without reliable online access.

Oh, Galactus, you are such a cheap b@st@rd. Image from IGN.com

Overall the game is pretty sweet, and you don't have to be a hardcore fighting fan to appreciate and play the game. There are a ton of unlockables, when counting the titles and icons, and some potentially amazing DLC characters down the road (not that I'm in love with the idea of having to buy the other characters in the game) if Capcom decides to support that option. I give it a 8.7/10.

(If you have the means and the time, please help the Red Cross provide relief for those whose lives have been devastated by the earthquake and tsunami. They need basic supplies, such a blankets, cloths, food and water.)

Help Me Graduate Guys!!!

Hey all! As some of you may already know, I an getting into my final year of college (yay |(^o^)|), and as part of my senior project, I have to conduct some surveys for a research project that I am working on. I have two brief surveys, each take no more than ten minutes in most cases, and I would love to see the response of all of my fans!
The first one is here:

Achievements, Trophies and Gamers 1

And number two! Tada!~

Achievements, Trophies and Gamers 2

Shot Through the Heart, and You're To Blame . . . (Bleach 440)

The chase is on as we begin Chapter 440 of Bleach, as Chad and Ichigo are now hot on the trail of Inoue, who is emitting peculiar reiatsu patterns. Ichigo is obviously very concerned, but his is still in a weakened state from the training he just completed. Chad cannot lock onto her precise location, but Ichigo notices that it seems to be coming from the direction of her apartment.

Meanwhile, at the Justice League, Inoue stands between Tsukishima and Shishigawara, vowing to not let the former leave with holding him accountable for injuring Ishida. Tsukishima scoffs at Inoue's assertion as she contemplates her battle strategy. As Tsukishima turns to leave, Inoue seizes the opportunity to activate Santen Kesshun, but is countered instantly by Tsukishima, appearing behind her.

Just then, Ichigo and Chad arrive to find a perplexed, yet unscathed Inoue standing alone by her apartment door. She claims to have just have experienced a stomach ache after her "friend" left. Bewildered by her own response, referring to Tsukishima as "friend," she tells Chad that she will text him later, so as to not get Ichigo involved (as Inoue is unaware of Ichigo's recent exploits), and plays along with the ruse.

Suspecting that there is much more to this that both Inoue and Chad are letting on, Ichigo returns to the Xcution headquarters, where Kuugo reveals to him the true source of the attacks on his friends: Xcution's former ally and fellow Fullbringer, Tsukishima.

After witnessing Inoue's response to Tsukishima's attack, you have to wonder if his Fullbring, Book of the End, has other special properties, such as some sort of mind-manipulating poison or something like that. Possibly poisoned works, or something of that line, to fit with the book theme. Only time will tell I guess. This chapter was quite solid, a good 9/10 with much to look forward to in the chapters to come.

It Just Keeps Hap'ning, Bro!!!

Ugh, sorry about not updating in a bit. I have a lot on my plate at the moment, as I have three finals this week on top of a research project that I have yet to start. And I don't mean research paper; I mean I have a research method that need to be clarified before I can begin conducting surveys and focus groups, then I have to compile and analyze that date before the end of next month.

On top of that, Pokemon just released, and it is quickly ruining my sleep, work and study schedules. That right, it ruins all the schedules. ALL OF THEM!!!

When I get back after this week, I should have several reviews to post, from Kingdom Hearts Re:coded to Kamen Rider OOO and Gokaiger, and of course Pokemon Black/White. Just hold on for a bit longer!

Damn Kids These Days!!! (Gokiager 2)

OK, let's face it. Gokaiger is awesome. I'm sure you have been watching ahead, but just in case I'll try not to spoil too much of the magic. Gokaiger 2 does give us more insight into Capt. Marvelous's past, as well a our first real Gokai-oh fight.

The episode starts with the Gokai team assessing the situation that they are now in; after obliterating the first two waves of the Zangyack Empire, they must now continue their treasure search with a powerful enemy always at their back. Capt. Marvelous commands Navi is invoke some sort of prediction or foresight mode, which I assume will become central to the advancement of the plot. Navi predicts that the gang will encounter a man in black who will tell them something very important.

Heading down to Earth, everyone start to look around for the someone dress in black, but there is a major flaw in this plan: almost everyone around them is wearing black!!! Eventually they meet a boy (who has no name, because f*ck anyone besides the main cast [Note: I love seeing this balls-out type of approach from a sentai team, i.e. Go-Onger, Shinkenger (well at least ShinkenRed and ShinkenYellow).]) who manages to grift the Capt'n's ShinkenRed Key, whom both Ahim and Marvelous follow.

Once they catch up to the boy, Capt. Marvelous tries to convince the kid to give back the key, who refuses saying this power was always destined to protect Earth. A third Zangyack invasion ensues, causing Capt. Marvelous makes a deal with the kid: if he can stop this invasion, hey can keep the key and his Gokai Changer; if he fails, he must give up and find another way to protect the Earth. The kid gladly accepts, but fails miserably at this challenge, yet he still manages to convince Marvelous that this world is worth protecting.

Capt. and the gang roll out and take on the Zangyack forces in a fantastic fight, and, after an all dual-wielding Final Wave attack and an amazing all red ranger finish on the enemy Advance Commander Bongan, Development Technical Officer Insarn uses her new invention to revive Bongan and a few Sugormin as giants. The Gokaigers summon the Gokai Machines, take out the Sugormin, then change in Gokai-oh and defeat Bongan again.



Back on the Gokai Gallon, the team begins to question Navi's prediction, but it seems he might not have been far off in his hint; as the team flies away, a man in a hooded robe marked with the Magiranger symbol glares at them as he reflects on their last battle.

Good follow-up to the series premiere with lots to look forward to in the upcoming episodes. If you been watching ahead, you already know what I'm talking about, but if not, watch 2 & 3 immediately! 8.5/10

Bueaty, Love and Sea Monsters (Kamen Rider OOO 23-24)

In this mini-arc, we are privileged to encounter another pure form, all-blue Shauta Combo or "Marine Combo" as some have come to know it. We also inch closer and closer to a rider change and upgrade in the Birth camp.

Yes, but not in the way you would expect. . .

But first off, episode 23 starts with Kazari and Maki crafting plans, Ankh fretting over the lack of medal combos he and Eiji have managed to procure, and Kazari sets up a marine-type Yummy to ensnare a researcher, Yumi Sakura, who's sister, Rei, runs the beauty company where they both work, hoping to capitalize on her jealously of her sister's beauty. This last bit seems not to work out so well at first, as Uva is quick to point out to his ex-partner, but Kazari assures him it will all work out with time.

Yumi, who loves her role in the company and puts up with the abuse, runs into Date at the ol' oden cart, whom she use to travel with and seems to have a crush on.

Date and Yumi literally run into each other at the oden cart.

Date has to run off to face off against a Greeed, so he promises to meet her later on that night at the oden shack.

Kamen Rider Birth's Drill Arm (Made in China) is shattered by Kazari. Don't worry kids, it gets fixed in 24.

The chance encounter seems to re-spark her flames of passion, which the Yummy seizes upon, feeding to desire to it's full potential. Taking the egg with her, Yumi proceeds to go back to the lab, entrancing everyone she crosses with he newly obtained beauty.

She even manages to ensnare Eiji, who is left dumb(er)struck by her presence. Date is unfazed.

This is what happens when a Kamen Rider falls in love. It's stupid, has no finisher and it's surrounded by hearts. At least it has knee-caps, since falling in love in hard on the knees.

The plot thickens in 24, as it's not up to Date to save the day (or at least for the time being it is, since Eiji is completely useless at this point). Yumi manages to escape, assaulting the Date and Ankh with a swarm of Ei Yummy spawns. The next day, Rei starts freaking out since her sister is no where to be found, and she needs her report in order to make it seem as if she in control of everything (see kids, even exploitation has it's downsides). Yumi enters, bent on controlling the company from hence forth, captures Rei, and proceeds to handle the press conference on her own.

Revenge is a dish best served cold. And underwater.

While everyone else is entranced by her face, Date is still unaffected and rushes to the lab to talk some sense into Yumi. Just as he confesses that he was more impressed by the true Yumi, the Ei-Sai Yummy attacks. Shintaro shows up as back-up as Date transforms into Birth, now with an upgraded CLAWS Drill Arm, to protect the Sakura sisters. Yumi in injured in the attack badly, yet Date manages to remove enough Cell Medals to remove the "Sai" element of the Yummy, morphing it into a large Itomakiei Yummy which bursts out the building.

FIND A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS!

Meanwhile outside, Eiji as OOO and Kazari are going at it, as Ankh has sensed the presence of a Yummy near the lab, hoping that the transformation would snap Eiji from his daze. The plan works, and Eiji uses the Take head to steal Mezool's Shachi Medal from Kazari, allowing him to go Shauta Combo. Kazari flees as Eiji uses his new found water powers to dominate the Yummy on land and sea, finally dispacting it with a Scanning Charge: Octo Banish attack. As things start to cool down, Yumi thanks Date, who decides to pass on her for now, and says he has some work to complete first.

This arc was pretty sweet, mainly due to the insight into Date's past and the reveal of Shauta Combo. As a whole, 8/10.